Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-11

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The graph below shows the average monthly change in the prices of three metals during 2014.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Average monthly change in prices of copper, nickel and zinc (2014)

Student answer (Band 6.5)

The line chart illustrates the monthly percentage changes in the prices of three metals in 2014 compared with the previous month.

Overall, copper was the metal with the most stable pattern compared with others, while nickel experienced significant changes over the months.

In January, copper and nickel recorded changes of 2% and 6%, respectively, while zinc had the smallest change, at around 1%. In February, copper and nickel fell to approximately 1% and 4%, respectively, while zinc rose to 3%. In March, copper fell to just over 0.5%, while nickel more than halved to around 1% and zinc declined to 2%. In April, copper remained unchanged at around 0.5%, while nickel stayed at 1% and zinc fell to approximately 1.5%. In May, copper fell slightly below 0%, while nickel and zinc declined to around 0.5% and 1%, respectively. In June, nickel experienced the sharpest fall, reaching about -3%, while zinc dropped to -1% and copper remained unchanged.

From July to September, the three metals remained relatively stable, with only minor fluctuations. In October, nickel fell sharply to about -2%, while zinc dropped to -1% and copper to around 0.5%. In November, all three metals recovered, with nickel and zinc rising to approximately 1.5% and 1.5%, respectively, while copper remained at around 0.5%. In December, nickel did not face any changes, while zinc grew to 2%, and copper to about 1.3%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response effectively identifies the main features and trends of the three metals. You have successfully highlighted the volatility of nickel compared to the relative stability of copper. The overview is clear, and the data is accurately selected to support the main points. To reach a higher band, ensure that you group the data more analytically rather than listing month-by-month changes. For example, instead of detailing every month, you could group the periods of decline and recovery more cohesively to provide a more sophisticated summary of the trends.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs. You use a variety of cohesive devices such as 'while', 'in contrast', and 'from July to September' to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different timeframes. The progression of ideas is smooth, and the information is easy to follow. To improve, ensure that the transition between the detailed monthly data and the summary of trends feels more integrated, as the current structure relies heavily on a chronological list.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for describing trends, such as 'fluctuations', 'sharpest fall', and 'remained unchanged'. The use of percentage terminology is accurate. However, the vocabulary is somewhat repetitive, particularly the reliance on 'recorded changes of' and 'fell to'. To achieve a higher score, incorporate more varied synonyms for movement and change, such as 'plummeted', 'surged', or 'stabilized', and ensure precise collocations when describing the data points.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Most sentences are clear and error-free, with good control over punctuation and comparative structures (e.g., 'copper was the metal with the most stable pattern compared with others'). There are very few grammatical errors, and the meaning is always clear. To reach the next level, try to incorporate a wider variety of complex grammatical structures, such as participle clauses or passive voice, to enhance the sophistication of your writing.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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